When People Leave by Leslie A. Rasmussen follows three sisters—Morgan, Charlie, and Abby—as they grapple with the shocking loss of their mother, Carla. After her unexpected death, what first appears to be a tragic suicide sets the sisters on a journey of grief, discovery, and long-buried family secrets. Alongside this mystery, the novel weaves in the sisters’ personal struggles: Morgan’s sobriety, Charlie’s crumbling relationship, and Abby’s overwhelming life as a young mother. Each chapter switches perspectives, layering the narrative with emotion, humor, and an exploration of what it means to really know someone you love.

From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Rasmussen’s writing feels natural, like a good friend sitting you down and telling you a story they have to get off their chest. Her dialogue snaps with authenticity, and the emotional beats land hard without ever feeling forced. I found myself laughing at some parts and genuinely tearing up at others. It’s rare for a book to feel this alive. The pacing was spot-on too; I never once felt bogged down or tempted to skim, which says a lot. Rasmussen nails the chaotic, messy beauty of family, and she doesn’t sugarcoat the ways love and pain can tangle together.

There were a few moments where the writing leaned on exposition, especially when digging into backstories. But honestly, I didn’t care that much because the characters were so real, so heartbreakingly flawed, that I would’ve followed them anywhere. I especially loved Morgan’s arc—her inner battles were raw and painful and, ultimately, hopeful. Rasmussen has a real gift for showing how healing isn’t a straight line but a looping, stumbling kind of journey.

When People Leave is one of those stories that lingers. It’s for anyone who’s ever wondered if they really knew their parents, or who’s ever struggled to forgive the people they love most. I’d recommend this book to readers who like emotionally honest fiction with lots of heart, a touch of mystery, and characters you want to reach through the pages and hug.

Pages: 311 | ASIN: B0DW751V7B